Aleve
Purpose of Aleve
Aleve is an over-the-counter medication used to temporarily treat minor aches and pain due to:
- headache
- muscle aches
- backache
- minor arthritis pain
- the common cold
- toothache
- menstrual cramps and pain
Abreva is also used to temporarily reduce fever.
Active Ingredients
naproxen sodium 220 mg
Inactive Ingredients
Aleve FDA Warning
Allergy alert: Aleve may cause a severe allergic reaction, especially in people allergic to aspirin. Symptoms may include:
- hives
- asthma (wheezing)
- skin reddening
- blisters
- facial swelling
- shock
- rash
If an allergic reaction occurs, stop use and seek medical help right away.
Stomach bleeding warning: This product contains a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), which may cause stomach bleeding. The chance is higher if you:
- are age 60 or older
- have had stomach ulcers or bleeding problems
- take a blood thinning (anticoagulant) or steroid drug
- take other drugs containing an NSAID (aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen, or others)
- have 3 or more alcoholic drinks every day while using this product
- take more or for a longer time than directed.
Do not use:
- if you have ever had an allergic reaction to any other pain reliever/fever reducer
- right before or after heart surgery.
Ask a doctor before use if you have:
- problems or serious side effects from taking pain relievers or fever reducers
- stomach problems that last or come back, such as heartburn, upset stomach, or stomach pain
- ulcers
- asthma
- bleeding problems
- high blood pressure
- heart or kidney disease
- taken a diuretic
- reached age 60 or older.
Ask a doctor or pharmacist before use if you are:
- taking any other drug containing an NSAID (prescription or nonprescription)
- taking a blood thinning (anticoagulant) or steroid drug
- under a doctor’s care for any serious condition
- taking any other drug.
When using this product:
- take with food or milk if stomach upset occurs
- the risk of heart attack or stroke may increase if you use more than directed or for longer than directed.
Stop use and ask a doctor if:
- you feel faint, vomit blood, or have bloody or black stools. These are signs of stomach bleeding.
- pain gets worse or lasts for more than 10 days
- fever gets worse or lasts for more than 3 days
- you have difficulty swallowing
- it feels like the pill is stuck in your throat
- you develop heartburn
- stomach pain or upset gets worse or lasts
- redness or swelling is present in the painful area
- any new symptoms appear
If pregnant or breastfeeding, ask a health professional before use. It is especially important not to use Aleve during the last 3 months of pregnancy unless definitely directed to do so by a doctor because it may cause problems in the unborn child or complications during delivery.
Keep out of reach of children.
In case of overdose, get medical help or contact a Poison Control Center right away (1-800-222-1222).
Directions
- Do not take more than directed.
- The smallest effective dose should be used.
- Do not take longer than 10 days, unless directed by a doctor (see Warnings).
- Drink a full glass of water with each dose
Adults and children 12 years of age or older:
- Take 1 tablet or capsule every 8 to 12 hours while symptoms last.
- For the first dose you may take 2 tablets or capsules within the first hour.
- Do not exceed 2 tablet or capsules in any 8- to 12-hour period.
- Do not exceed 3 tablet or capsules in a 24-hour period.
Pediatric Use
For children under 12 years, ask a doctor.
Other Information About Aleve
- Each capsule contains 20 mg of sodium.
- Store at 20-25°C (68-77°F) avoid high humidity and excessive heat above 40°C (104°F).
- Read all directions and warnings before use. Keep carton.